Frequently Asked Questions about Cost and Quality

There are so many quality measures out there. What’s really important and where can I find out more information about a hospital’s quality scores?

Federal and state agencies, as well as other trusted organizations, have chosen to track “quality indicators”—measurements of high-quality medical care for certain common or most costly conditions. These sources gauge whether hospitals like ours give important, recommended medical treatments to achieve the best results for patients. Here we highlight a few respected independent sites that use nationally accepted data-collection and measurement standards.

At Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento we strive to deliver the most effective and safe care that’s also personalized to meet your individual needs and preferences. We were recently designated as an Atrial Fibrillation and Chest Pain Center Accreditation from the Society of Chest Pain Centers; a Baby Friendly Hospital® by UNICEF; a Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission; and a Level 1 Bariatric Surgery Center by Bariatric Surgery Center Network.

How can I find out the actual out-of-pocket cost for a certain procedure?

It’s always a good idea to contact your health plan directly before an anticipated hospital procedure or admission. You will find the number of the customer service department on your insurance card.

The hospital cost information provided on your health plan’s website may not be complete or accurate for an individual patient. It may not provide an accurate estimate of your out-of-pocket costs, since these expenses vary based on your insurance benefits—deductibles, co-pays and cost shares, and out-of-pocket maximum limitations.

Please keep in mind that it’s difficult to know in advance what your total course of treatment will involve—what specific procedures, supplies or all of the tests you might need.

Why do costs vary so much between hospitals?

Unfortunately, the information posted on the health plan’s website does not take into account multiple factors that may impact the cost of your specific course of treatment.

It’s important to discuss your individual health care needs and estimated treatment costs with your health care professionals. Please work directly with your physicians and other care providers to understand the best, most appropriate care setting for you as well as the level of service that you or a family member may require.

Some services may be less expensive if provided outside a hospital setting. To see the locations of Sutter Health’s affiliated outpatient surgery centers, procedure centers and other ancillary outpatient providers (non-Hospital), please refer to the Surgery Center page on www.sutterhealth.org.